Not every story shows up on a transcript.
Some take the unconventional path and actually see it through.
Some students build startups before they graduate. Some connect entire communities. Some make bold moves that others might consider ‘crazy’.
The Kajima Book Prize in Innovation recognises exactly those students.
This year, we are awarding three prizes of $5,000 each to final-year SMU students who've gone beyond the classroom and done something real.
We're looking for students who approach real problems with innovative thinking — finding ways forward even when the path isn't clear; who carry enterprising grit — staying outcome-driven when things get hard; and who have shown genuine Innovation & Entrepreneurship engagement across programmes like Global Innovation Immersion, Protégé Ventures, LKYGBPC, BIG, clubs, hackathons, and beyond.
Eligibility
- The prize is open to all students who filed for graduation in 2026 (with commencement slated for Jul to Aug 2026) who have demonstrated an innovative spirit, resilience, an entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and adaptability during their university journey.
- Have participated in innovation & entrepreneurship (I&E) activities, including but not limited to:
- SMU IIE programs (as exco, member, volunteer, attendee or in any capacities):
- Other I&E activities:
- I&E clubs
- Hackathons
- Internships in I&E sectors
- Took I&E courses
- Attended I&E events
Mechanics of Award
- Three awards of S$5,000 value each, will be awarded to deserving students each year
Timeline
- Application period open till 31 July 2026
- Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed
How to Apply
Fill in the application form by scanning the QR code below or visit here.
All submissions must be received by 31 July 2026
Any further questions? Write to us at iie@smu.edu.sg!
Know any eligible students to nominate for The Kajima Book Prize in Innovation?
All SMU faculty, staff and students are invited to submit nominations for this award. Nominators must fill out the online nomination form and provide strong supporting reasons. Nominees will be informed of their nominations and who nominated them.
Please note that nominees MUST be SMU students graduating in 2026 (who filed for graduation in 2026, with commencement slated for Jul to Aug 2026) - who have demonstrated an innovative spirit, resilience, an entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and adaptability during their university journey
Is there a limit to the number of nominations an individual can submit?
There is no limit to the number of nominations an individual can submit. Plus, it'll take no more than 5 minutes of your time! We encourage nominators to recognise as many deserving students as possible.
How to Nominate
Submit your nominations HERE!
Meet the Past 2 Winners from the Kajima Book Prize in Innovation 2025
Read their story here: From Adversity to Innovation: The Startup Journeys of SMU Entrepreneurs
The Kajima Book Prize in Innovation is Supported by The GEAR
About The GEAR by Kajima
The GEAR by Kajima is the technology services business and the open innovation platform of the Kajima group. As part of Kajima, one of Japan’s largest and oldest construction, engineering, and real estate companies with a nearly two-century legacy of innovation, The GEAR by Kajima bridges world-class engineering expertise, licensed technologies, and global-local collaboration to co-create transformative solutions for the built environment.
The GEAR by Kajima provides unprecedented opportunities for businesses to access Kajima’s licensed technologies and leverage our rich engineering heritage. By cultivating an open and collaborative ecosystem with industry partners, The GEAR by Kajima is driving forward industry-wide advancement and setting new standards for the future of the built environment.
For more information on The GEAR by Kajima, visit https://www.thegear.sg